Humid, Hot Weather and Decreased Nursing

Yesterday brought in the beginning of a summer heat wave that is slated to last for a while. LO has entered a stage of great distractibility . . . that coupled with her feeling the heat a tremendous amount is making nursing a challenge. She's not wanting to nurse for as long - and her diaper output yesterday was drastically reduced. My concern is that she gets enough milk to keep her hydrated (she sweats like crazy!). Is there a valid reason for giving her water during this extreme heat and humidity? LL is 18 weeks tomorrow.

We stay indoors when it's very hot. I'm just concerned as the summer unfolds as to whether I should be offering her a little water or not.

Re: Humid, Hot Weather and Decreased Nursing

Nursing is enough to provide for all your child's fluid needs. No need for water, unless you want to use it on the outside, wiping her down with a cool damp cloth when she seems to be really hot.

If your baby is not nursing enough to stay hydrated, then expressed milk, formula, or oral rehydration solution (e.g. Pedialyte) would be your options, in that order of preference. Water in excessive amounts can throw off a baby's electrolyte balance, and that can make her sick. A sip or two isn't going to hurt, but you would never give a baby a bottle of water.